He took historic action -- his administration did -- to confront climate change, including proposing the first national standard for harmful carbon pollution for new power plants, as well as establishing unprecedented standards for cars and trucks that will slash emissions of carbon pollution while, at the same time, saving consumers billions of dollars.

WHITEHOUSE: Press Briefing

Moreover, it is economic growth that has provided the resources enabling us to dramatically reduce pollution and improve the environment, without trashing our standard of living.

FORBES: Economic Growth, Not Redistribution, Most Benefits The Poor, Working People, And The Middle Class

But Geer says that's standard procedure, and not related to the pollution.

NPR: Beijing Races to Clear Its Skies Before the Olympics

Nor is standard photographic equipment always sufficient, since urban light pollution can wreck an image of a supernova.

FORBES: A Star Is Born

California's allowed to have stricter rules curbing pollution from autos than the federal government does, and other states can choose between the federal standard and California's.

NPR: States Push Automakers on Fuel Efficiency